Urban Design Architect

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Urban Design Architect in Randburg to lead large-scale urban regeneration, master planning, and public space design.

The role requires a deep understanding of urban design, architecture, landscape, and community engagement, with responsibility for guiding projects from concept to implementation.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Architecture, or related field with urban focus.
• Minimum 8 years of professional experience in urban design/architectural practice with urban emphasis.
• Experience leading complex urban planning and master planning projects.
• Proficiency in urban design software, GIS, CAD, and 3D modeling/visualization tools (SketchUp, Rhino, Lumion).
• Strong understanding of urban planning policies, zoning regulations, and development processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and facilitation skills with diverse stakeholders.
• A strong portfolio of urban design projects and master plans; accreditation is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of urban design strategies and master plans for diverse projects.
• Create conceptual designs, visualisations, and design guidelines to communicate proposals.
• Collaborate with city planners, developers, government agencies, engineers, and communities.
• Conduct site analysis and research urban trends to identify opportunities.
• Ensure designs promote sustainability, walkability, connectivity and equity.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and design documentation for planning applications.
• Integrate architectural design with broader urban planning objectives.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to firm expertise.
• Manage project timelines and client relationships.

Skills

Urban design

GIS

CAD

SketchUp

Rhino

Lumion

Visualization

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design or Architecture

Tools

GIS

CAD

3D software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking urban planning and architectural consultancy based in Randburg, Gauteng , is seeking an experienced Urban Design Architect to play a key role in shaping the future of cities and communities. This position involves leading the design and development of large-scale urban regeneration projects, master planning initiatives, and public space designs. You will be responsible for creating innovative, sustainable, and socially inclusive urban environments that enhance the quality of life for residents. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of urban planning principles, architectural design, landscape architecture, and community engagement, coupled with a passion for creating vibrant and functional urban spaces. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence the built environment on a significant scale.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of urban design strategies and master plans for diverse projects, including new developments, redevelopments, and public spaces.
• Create conceptual designs, visualisations, and design guidelines to communicate urban design proposals effectively.
• Collaborate closely with city planners, developers, government agencies, engineers, and community stakeholders.
• Conduct site analysis, research urban trends, and identify opportunities for innovative urban interventions.
• Ensure designs promote sustainability, walkability, connectivity, and social equity.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and design documentation for planning applications and public consultations.
• Integrate architectural design principles with broader urban planning objectives.
• Mentor junior urban designers and contribute to the firm's expertise in urban design.
• Manage project timelines and client relationships for urban design initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Architecture, or a related field with a strong urban focus.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in urban design and/or architectural practice with a focus on urban environments.
• Demonstrated experience in leading the design of complex urban planning and master planning projects.
• Proficiency in urban design software, GIS, CAD, and 3D modeling/visualization tools (e.g., SketchUp, Rhino, Lumion).
• Strong understanding of urban planning policies, zoning regulations, and development processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and facilitation skills, with experience engaging diverse stakeholders.
• A proven ability to develop compelling and contextually sensitive urban design solutions.
• A strong portfolio showcasing successful urban design projects and master plans.
• Professional accreditation in a relevant field is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and opportunities for professional development and continued learning.
• Enjoy generous annual leave and a commitment to promoting a healthy work-life balance for all employees.